Eminent floriculturist Harminder Singh Baweja has taken over as the Vice-Chancellor of Dr Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry in Nauni, Solan district. Baweja, with over 36 years of experience in academics, research, and administration, has held key roles such as Managing Director of the Himachal Pradesh State Agricultural Marketing Board and Director of Horticulture in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
An accomplished academic and administrator, Baweja has mentored numerous postgraduate and Doctor of Philosophy students, authored research papers and books, and contributed significantly to curriculum modernization and skill development. He has represented India at Food and Agriculture Organization conferences and engaged in international visits to Europe and the United Arab Emirates.
Baweja’s efforts have notably enhanced horticulture infrastructure, agricultural marketing, and policy implementation. He successfully secured around Rs 150 crore for agricultural marketing infrastructure under World Bank projects and managed projects exceeding Rs 8,500 crore in Uttarakhand.
Expressing gratitude for the warm reception by the university’s faculty, staff, and students, Baweja aims to elevate the university into a globally competitive, innovation-focused, and financially sustainable institution with robust industry connections and farmer-centric outreach programs. He thanked Governor Kavinder Gupta, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu, and the Council of Ministers for entrusting him with the responsibility of serving the farming and horticultural community through the university.
After assuming office, Baweja pledged to maximize the university’s initiatives and concentrate on nurturing skilled graduates dedicated to advancing the agricultural and horticultural sectors. He stressed the importance of strengthening ties with alumni to create enhanced opportunities for students and young professionals graduating from the university.
